Massachusetts Health Reform: 2 Years Later

In 2006, Massachusetts passed comprehensive health reform legislation which aimed to cover 95% of its uninsured population over the course of three years. After the rapid creation of new subsidized and nonsubsidized health insurance coverage programs, market reforms, and employer requirements, the state has been able to cover a significant portion of individuals who were previously uninsured. Additionally, implementation began of the nation's first individual mandate, requiring residents to have health insurance if it is affordable for them. This workshop will analyze the implementation progress which has been made through both policy and programmatic lenses, and review sustainability as we deal with issues relating to reaching newly eligible uninsured populations, coverage maintenance, cost, and overall public perception of the health reform law. Additionally, we will discuss lessons that advocates from other states can utilize in their own quests for comprehensive and universal health care coverage.